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Applicant Tracking Systems

Dean Dunbar

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Posted: 3 Jun 2013 19:06:32 PM

Applicant tracking systems use the same "keywords" matching techniques that search engines utilize. These automated systems crawl through your résumé in an attemp

t to match the "keywords" that the employer is seeking. To combat this, candidates should customize their resume to mirror the diction utilized by the potential employer.

A thorough review of the job description will reveal the keywords that the employer is seeking. Applicants should key in on the action verbs that are used to describe the responsibilities of the position. Applicants should make reference of job titles, software systems and other elements that the employer mentions. For example, if a potential employer/school calls their student body pupils, candidates or prospects, you should do the same when explaining your experience and qualifications. The goal is to increase the number of keywords that match the employer’s description of the position. Remember, in most cases it is the tracking system that is counting the number of word matches between your résumé and employers search requirements. The profiles/portfolios that have the most matches are the ones that the system flags.

In summary, applicants are best served by creating a semi-custom resume for each position for which they apply. Most of the content of each resume will be the same, with slight changes in strategic places to appeal to the description of each position. 

 

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